VP of Machine Learning & Sensors - AI Innovation Leadership

The Elevator Pitch

Join Evolv as VP of Machine Learning & Sensors to lead our AI innovation in physical security technology. You'll head our ML/AI team developing cutting-edge computer vision and modern deep learning solutions that process multi-sensor inputs (3D cameras, magnetics, X-ray) in real-time on constrained hardware platforms. This is a hands-on leadership role where you'll combine technical expertise with team mentorship to push the boundaries of AI-powered physical security screening solutions.

Success in the Role: What are performance outcomes over the first 6-12 months you will work toward completing?

In the first 30 days, you will:

· Deep dive into Evolv’s sensors, algorithms, and development processes

· Understand the real-time processing, hardware limitations, and environmental constraints.

· Meet and assess current AI/ML team capabilities and needs.

· Review existing model performance metrics and areas for improvement.

Within the First Three Months:

· Challenge status quo and existing design approaches.

· Create a roadmap for ML tools and infrastructure improvements.

· Build relationships with cross-functional engineering teams to optimize ML implementation.

By the End of the First Year:

· Build and mentor a high-performing AI/ML team.

· Create a scalable, rapid model development, validation, and deployment process.

· Drive innovation in multi-sensor fusion algorithms

· Help oversee the transition of Evolv Innovation Center (EIC) products from POC to initial customer validation phases.

· Define and execute the company's sensor-driven AI strategy, aligning it with business objectives to drive growth and innovation.

The Work: What type of work will you be doing? What assignments, requirements, or skills will you be performing on a regular basis?

Technical Leadership:

· Lead development of computer vision and modern ML development, including transformer-based architectures and advanced neural networks.

· Architect solutions combining multiple sensor inputs.

· Expand knowledge of magnetic sensor processing, X-ray imaging systems, and related sensing technologies.

· Implement best practices in model training, validation, and deployment.

· Understand the technology stack from the nuts and bolts up: be the “chief systems engineer” and obstacle breaker.

· Partner with external stakeholders and academic institutions to stay ahead of technological advancements.

Innovation Management

· Lead R&D initiatives in sensor/ML/AI innovation.

· Elicit commitment and feedback with a regular cadence of demos and proofs-of-concept.

· Identify new opportunities for AI applications.

· Stay current with the latest ML developments and drive continuous improvement in sensing capabilities.

Team Leadership:

· Build and mentor the Algorithms & Sensors team.

· Enable rapid development through prioritization, planning, and automation.

· Drive innovation culture while maintaining a practical focus.

· Represent AI and sensor initiatives to the executive team.

· Work closely with cross-functional teams, including product, hardware, software engineering, and DevOps/SQA to integrate ML solutions into the security platform.

Technical Expertise Required: Machine Learning & Computer Vision

· PhD in Computer Science, Machine Learning, or related field

· 10+ years’ experience in computer vision/deep learning

· Strong command of emerging tools and architectures in machine learning

· Understanding of 3D camera technologies

· Expertise in sensor fusion algorithms

· Experience with TensorFlow, PyTorch, and other ML frameworks

· Strong programming skills in Python and C++.

· Knowledge of hardware acceleration technologies (GPU, NPU and TPU)

What is the leadership like for this role? What is the structure and culture of the team?

• You will join the R&D Organization and report to our Executive Vice President and Head of Engineering.
• You will lead a team of independent and impactful engineers with backgrounds including Electromagnetics, Computer Vision, and AI.
• The R&D organization is comprised of more than 100 dedicated developers, engineers, and managers with deep expertise who are always willing to help.
• The team culture is one based on building trust, collaboration, on-going development through kindness, authenticity, courage, drive, and fun!

Where is the role located?

This role is based at our headquarters in Waltham, Massachusetts. Due to the nature of our software-enabled hardware products, this position requires a minimum of 80% on-site work.

What is the salary range?

The base salary range for this full-time position is $225,000 - $275,000+ bonus + equity + benefits. Our salary ranges are determined by role, level, and location. The range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position across all US locations. Within the range, individual pay is determined by work location and additional factors, including job-related skills, experience, and relevant education or training. Your recruiter can share more about the specific salary range for your preferred location during the hiring process.

Please note that the compensation details listed in role posting reflect the base salary only, and do not include commission, equity, or benefits.